Paula’s Perfect Plate: 3 Meals and 2 Snacks for the Perfectly Balanced Day

Hi, y’all! My name is Robin Shea, partner and contributor on the Paula Deen Network. A few weeks ago, I decided to crack open Paula’s new cookbook, Paula Deen Cuts the Fat, 250 Favorite Recipes All Lightened Up, I was on the hunt, looking for new food ideas that were healthy and delicious, but also met the guidelines I use in my 80/20 Lifestyle for my 80% Healthy side of life (more on this later in the blog!). After my first flip through the book, I had to call Paula and send her a phone hug. She did a fantastic job as usual.

While Paula and I were talking, we thought, “Wouldn’t it be great to help people understand a little more about the recipes in the new book, Paula Deen Cuts the Fat through a series of blog posts?” And from there, Paula’s Perfect Plate was born! My goal through this series is simple—to show you how delicious a day full of healthy recipes can be and inspire you to give it a try.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the first Paula’s Perfect Plate with recipes from Paula Deen Cuts the Fat and my website, RobinShea.com.

Below are the nutritional guidelines I use to help determine the daily allowances:

Fat: 44-77 grams based on a 2,000-calorie diet

Carbohydrates: 225+ grams based on a 2,000-calorie diet

Protein: 45+ grams based on a 2,000-calorie diet

Sodium: 1500-2300 milligrams

Sugar: 50 grams or 10% of daily calories, based on 2,000-calorie diet

Unless noted as a 20% Indulgent recipe with my 20% Seal of Approval, all recipes in Paula’s Perfect Plate support the 80% Healthy side of life. I have discovered that this ratio of 80/20 is the perfect balance for long-term sustainable weight management, maximum nutritional health benefits, and psychological stability. I don’t believe in depriving myself or my clients, so my clients typically enjoy two 20% Indulgent treats of their choosing each week—Wednesday and Sunday tend to work great.

KEEP THIS IN MIND:

Paula’s Perfect Plate is full of variety, flavor, and balance for the normal, healthy adult. These recipes are perfect for weight loss or weight management and will help you build a strong foundation for whatever lifestyle goals you seek. If you have special dietary or health considerations, please check with your Doctor prior to beginning any new nutritional program.

I hope the creation of Paula’s Perfect Plate gives you the encouragement needed to take the next step! The only thing required to live a healthier life is patience with yourself. Just allow your habits to catch up to your desire to be healthy. It really is that simple.

If you don’t already have your copy of Paula Deen Cuts the Fat, you can pick yours up at Barnes & Noble or on Amazon!

Until next time… Live Inspired!!!

-Robin xo

Robin Shea
- As a healthy lifestyle mentor, speaker, celebrity cook, and creator of The 80/20 Lifestyle, Robin Shea is committed to providing her clients with reliable sources for nutritional and fitness guidance, among other aspects of healthy living. Robin has been helping people embrace healthier food choices, fall in love with fitness, and correct plain old stinkin’ thinkin’ for over 14 years.